Smithsonian “Spark! Places of Innovation” Exhibition Comes to Fort Payne

Smithsonian traveling exhibition highlighting innovation in rural America opened in February at the Fort Payne Coal and Iron Building and will remain on display through March 25.

“Spark! Places of Innovation” explores how small towns across the country have turned local challenges into creative solutions, revitalizing neighborhoods, strengthening business districts, and building new cultural opportunities.

Landmarks of DeKalb County, in collaboration with the City of Fort Payne and Fort Payne Main Street, was selected by the Alabama Humanities Alliance to host the exhibition as part of the Museum on Main Street program, a partnership between the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES), state humanities councils, and local organizations.

The exhibit features stories, images, and interactive displays from more than 30 communities nationwide, showcasing social, artistic, technological, and cultural innovation.

“‘Spark!’ allows us to reflect on DeKalb County’s history, present, and future, and we are excited to explore what the future may hold for our community,” said Jessica Harper-Brown, executive director of Landmarks of DeKalb County. “We want to convene conversations about innovation in our own community and have developed local exhibitions and public programs to complement the Smithsonian exhibition.”

The exhibition is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with evenings and weekends available by appointment.